Leanne Gauthier, JeCoven Norwood, Elizabeth Webb and Lindsey Horrigan attended the Masterworks Arts Festival at Winona Lake, Indiana this past June and July.  For three weeks, these girls studied with over 300 professional christian musicians, actors, opera singers and dancers from all over the world to the lovely town of Winona Lake, Indiana.  This festival provided the finest orchestra music every weekend, presenting dozens of recitals and chamber music concerts.  In addition, the Ballet Department presented Stravinsky's Firebird, with additional pieces by choreographers Steve Rooks (Sattoh - Katsutoski Nagasawa)  and Caleb Mitchell (Bach - "Temperance" and "The Infallible Vow" Dvorak)

Leanne Gauthier states, "Working with master teachers on a daily basis was very challenging. Ms. Charmaine, Mr. Caleb and Mr. Steve were all masters in the art of choreography and challenged us on a daily basis and would not settle for anything less than 100%. It was amazing.  Our bible study times were wonderful and I really enjoyed the opportunity to meet other people from the orchestra, opera and theatre.  Talent was very high, and as a christian, I've gained a greater appreciation for fine art and the artists who work so painlessly for the production of it. As christians, we should follow that same example in our walk with the Lord and perhaps that would encourage us to live more passionately for Him."

In addition to performances by the Ballet Depatment, The Opera Department performed Verdi's La Traviata and the Theatre Department presented a dramatic rendition of Arthur Miller's The Crucible.  Everyday (between dozens of rehearsals, coachings, lessons and practice time) the students and faculty spent time in prayer, studying the Scriptures and seeking the Lord's direction for their lives.  The combination of the artistic and the spiritual is the heart and hallmark of the Masterworks Festival.  All of the public performances were free and open to the public. These girls had an amazing experience of performing with a live orchestra (DSO quality) and crowds exceeding 3,000.  We are so proud of these girls and thank God for using The Link to develop their dance to honor Him!